U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces $1.5 Million in Quick Release Emergency Relief Funds for Flood Damage in Minnesota

Topics:  Ray LaHood

Federal Highway Administration
October 21, 2010

FHWA 57-10
Contact: Nancy Singer
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Phone: 202-366-0660

WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced he is making $1.5 million in quick release emergency funds immediately available to the Minnesota Department of Transportation to begin repairs to roads and bridges damaged by floods.

"Minnesota is struggling to recover from recent flood damage," Secretary LaHood said. "Emergency relief will help restore vital transportation links so people can regain a sense of normalcy."

Rainfall from September 22-24 resulted in catastrophic flooding and substantial damage to roads and bridges in a wide area in southern Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Transportation will use quick release funds to expedite emergency repairs before winter maintenance operations become necessary.

"This emergency money will address immediate transportation needs to help get communities back up and running again," Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez said.

Overall damage to federal-aid highways for this event is estimated to exceed $8.5 million.

Quick release emergency funds provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will be used to reimburse counties for the cost of repairs that were done in order to resume essential traffic flow immediately after the flooding and prevent further damage.

FHWA's emergency relief program provides funds for the repair or reconstruction of roads and bridges damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events.